Advice from the FO
I suppose we are crossing the Ebro today and that must count as fun. We are travelling in Spain so I thought I would have a look at Foreign Office Advice on what we should be aware of.
For Women
Before you go
Research your destination
All travellers face risks abroad. In some countries or cultures, women travelling alone or in female-only groups can face extra risks and obstacles.
When planning travel, consider researching:
the local culture of a country
whether women travelling there have received unwanted attention or difficulties because of their gender
Health conditions or pregnancy
If you have a health condition or are pregnant, you may need specialist healthcare abroad. Check whether the country can provide the healthcare you need and make sure you have appropriate travel insurance for unexpected medical evacuation or local treatment.
Many pregnant women travel abroad without any issues. However, you may be at increased risk of some health problems, and the right medical care may not always be available. It is important for you to be prepared. In some countries, if you become pregnant or give birth outside of marriage, you may not be covered by medical insurance.
Where it is heavily restricted, abortion may be denied to pregnant women. This may happen even in cases where it would be life-saving, and where there is little chance of the foetus surviving.
While you’re abroad
Violence towards women and girls is a risk in many countries. This may take different forms depending on the local context, laws, history and culture in the country.
If you are travelling by yourself or plan to spend time alone while you are abroad, see our advice for solo travellers.
Job opportunity scams and modern slavery
Be careful when considering job opportunities abroad, including:
in call centres
as hosts and hostesses
in childcare
as domestic help
other seemingly legitimate jobs
Be aware of job offers that appear too good to be true
These scams can target anyone. However, criminal gangs have sometimes targeted women and used these job opportunities as a front for human trafficking or modern slavery. Sometimes people have had their passports confiscated, and been held in poor living conditions, forced into illegal activities, or pressured to make large payments.
Resources for women travelling abroad
You can get more information from:
Caroline’s Rainbow Foundation promotes personal safety for travellers
Suzy Lamplugh Trust campaigns on personal safety and stalking with much of the information also applying to travel abroad
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